A Simulation Study for Optimum Location Selection in Wind Turbine Application on Ships: A Case Study for a Tanker Ship

Abstract

Today, wind energy contributes to the generation of electrical energy as well as the propulsion system on ships. In this study, the issue of optimum efficiency from wind turbines that can be installed on ships for electrical energy generation has been examined. In this context, a tanker ship was modeled and a simulation study was carried out. By dividing the ship deck into five zones, it was estimated which areas on the ship could receive more intense and homogeneous winds. In this way, the optimum wind areas and heights of the ship were determined. Thus, it is aimed that the wind turbine will operate in the most suitable area with maximum efficiency. As a result, the maximum wind speeds for the investigated ship model were determined as forecastle, fore main deck, and amidship regions, respectively. The optimum wind area is expected to differ for each ship model. For this reason, it is important to carry out such approaches specifically to the ship where the wind turbine will be applied. With this study, the importance of simulation studies has been emphasized, and it has been stated that such alternative approaches can increase the efficiency potential of ships.